Enzo Fernández has returned to the Chelsea squad following his extended holiday and has been named among the substitutes for the club's pre-season friendly against Real Sociedad.
The Argentina international was given additional time off after his involvement with Argentina at the World Cup, but he has now returned to Chelsea and is available for selection.
His return comes just one day after Chelsea's self-imposed deadline passed without Manchester City submitting an official bid for the midfielder.
Chelsea had made it clear that a £120 million offer was required before the deadline if City wanted to sign Fernández.
No official bid arrived, and Chelsea subsequently withdrew those previous transfer terms.
The club now expects the 25 year old to remain at Stamford Bridge.
Fernández Back in Chelsea Plans
Fernández's inclusion on the bench against Real Sociedad is an important sign that Chelsea are moving forward with the midfielder as part of their plans for the new season.
The friendly at Stamford Bridge is Chelsea's final pre-season match before the start of the 2026/27 Premier League campaign.
New Chelsea head coach Xabi Alonso can therefore begin integrating Fernández back into his squad after the midfielder's extended break.
The situation surrounding Fernández had attracted considerable attention over the past few days, with Manchester City maintaining interest in the midfielder.
However, City's failure to meet Chelsea's deadline means the transfer has stalled for now.
Fernández's return to the squad could now mark the beginning of a fresh chapter at Stamford Bridge, with Chelsea expecting him to remain an important part of the team.
For now, the Argentina star is back with his teammates and ready to play his part as Chelsea prepare for the new campaign.